Buttery Cheesy Basa

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make yet feels absolutely indulgent, then Buttery Cheesy Basa is just what you need. Imagine tender, flaky basa fillets coated in a rich, buttery sauce, topped with gooey, melted cheese. It’s the perfect combination of savory and creamy, with just a hint of crispy, golden edges that will have you going back for more. This dish is simple enough for a cozy dinner at home but fancy enough to impress your guests. It’s one of those meals that’s both comforting and satisfying. Trust me, this is the kind of dish you’ll crave over and over again.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, Buttery Cheesy Basa is foolproof. Plus, it’s versatile! Serve it with steamed vegetables, a side of rice, or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal. So, get ready to dive into this buttery, cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love Buttery Cheesy Basa

Here’s why this dish will be your new go-to:

Quick and Easy: You’ll have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes! It’s the perfect choice for a delicious weeknight dinner with minimal effort.

Comforting: The rich buttery sauce, paired with the melted cheese, creates a creamy, indulgent dish that feels like a little treat at the end of a busy day.

Flavorful: With a touch of garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of lemon, this dish delivers bold flavors with every bite, all while letting the delicate taste of the basa shine through.

Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s simple yet elevated, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small dinner party.

Budget-Friendly: Basa is an affordable fish that’s still packed with flavor and great texture. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking for an easy yet flavorful meal that won’t break the bank.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Buttery Cheesy Basa

This dish uses a handful of simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. Let’s break it down:

Basa Fish Fillets

The star of the dish. Basa is a mild, flaky white fish that’s easy to cook and absorbs flavors beautifully. It’s perfect for this cheesy, buttery recipe.

Butter

For that rich, creamy texture. Butter is the base of the sauce, giving it that irresistible richness that coats the fish perfectly.

Garlic

A few cloves of garlic, minced, will bring a lovely aromatic base to the buttery sauce and infuse the fish with delicious flavor.

Parmesan Cheese

The salty, nutty goodness of Parmesan melts beautifully over the fish, adding that cheesy decadence.

Mozzarella Cheese

For that melty, gooey texture that makes the dish feel indulgent.

Lemon Juice

A splash of lemon juice brightens the whole dish, balancing the richness of the butter and cheese with a little tang.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)

Fresh parsley or basil will add a pop of color and freshness, and they complement the buttery sauce beautifully.

Salt & Pepper

To taste, these simple seasonings enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.

(Note: measurements for these ingredients are listed in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for an easy yet absolutely delicious meal:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Prepare the Basa Fillets

Place your basa fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Season the fish with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.

Make the Buttery Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Add Lemon Juice and Cheese

Once the garlic is fragrant, add the lemon juice and Parmesan cheese to the butter, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Pour the Sauce Over the Fish

Pour the buttery garlic cheese sauce generously over the basa fillets, making sure to coat them evenly.

Add Mozzarella and Bake

Top the fillets with a handful of mozzarella cheese. Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, buttery goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 servings (approx.)
Calories per serving: 350 kcal (estimate)
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Buttery Cheesy Basa

This dish is so flavorful on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can elevate the meal:

• Steamed Veggies: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make for an excellent side, adding freshness and color to the plate.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the fish on a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious buttery sauce.
• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the fish, offering a crisp contrast to the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Additional Tips

• Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add extra Parmesan or even a sprinkle of cheddar for a different flavor twist.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the buttery sauce.
• Herb Variations: Try using different herbs like dill or thyme to change up the flavor profile of the dish.
• Serving Size: If you’re feeding a crowd, simply double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A1: Yes, you can substitute basa with other mild, flaky white fish like tilapia or cod. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: For best results, this dish is best made fresh. However, you can prepare the buttery garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, just pour it over the fish and bake.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q4: Can I make this dish without cheese?
A4: Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version, but the dish will lose its creamy, cheesy texture. You could try a dairy-free cheese alternative if preferred.

Q5: How can I make the sauce richer?
A5: If you want an extra-rich sauce, you can add a little heavy cream to the butter and garlic sauce for a velvety texture.

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
A6: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked fish and sauce for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat, though the texture may change slightly.

Q7: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A7: Roasted vegetables, a side of creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad are all great options to serve with this dish.

Q8: How do I know when the basa is cooked through?
A8: Basa is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Q9: Can I use frozen basa fillets?
A9: Yes! Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q10: Can I make this dish spicier?
A10: Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the sauce for an added kick.

Conclusion

Buttery Cheesy Basa is a dish that’s bound to impress, with its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender, flaky fish. It’s quick, easy, and indulgent—perfect for when you’re craving something comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

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